The Blue Jackets will be without head coach Brad Larsen and assistant coach Steve McCarthy for at least the next few games.
Both coaches have entered the NHL's COVID-19 protocol, the team announced Tuesday morning prior to their morning skate at Nationwide Arena. The Blue Jackets are facing the New York Islanders in a home-and-home set this week.
Blue Jackets associate coach Pascal Vincent will lead the team in Larsen's absence. Vincent told reporters on Tuesday that McCarthy arrived at the rink feeling symptomatic and was tested, which returned positive for COVID. The rest of the staff was then tested, and Larsen was positive as well.
NEWS: #CBJ Head Coach Brad Larsen and Assistant Coach Steve McCarthy have been placed in the #NHL's COVID-19 protocol.https://t.co/QEJCFEurKY
— CBJ Public Relations (@BlueJacketsPR) March 29, 2022
Jared Boll (who has been on the bench in a coaching capacity at various times throughout the season) will step in to serve as an assistant coach and run the defense on Tuesday night. Kenny McCudden, the team's assistant/skills coach, will come down from the press box and work with the forwards.
